2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS: IGP DISU ORDERS POLICE TO BE PREPARED, PROFESSIONAL AND ACCOUNTABLE

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed senior police officers to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force is adequately prepared, professional, neutral and accountable ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Disu gave the directive on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the opening of the 2026 Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers (CARSPO) in Owerri, Imo State.

The IGP outlined a six-point election-security framework centred on early intelligence and warning systems, intensive training, inter-agency coordination, technology-driven communication, community partnerships, and strict police neutrality.  

He directed Commissioners of Police to identify and map potential electoral flashpoints, strengthen early-warning mechanisms and ensure that personnel are trained in crowd management, protection of electoral officials and materials, conflict prevention, rapid response and human-rights-compliant policing.

Disu also warned politicians and their supporters against recruiting thugs, vote-buying, arms movement and intimidation of voters or electoral officials. He said the Police would work with relevant agencies, including INEC, EFCC and ICPC, in addressing electoral offences.  

The IGP stressed that election security must cover the entire electoral cycle rather than being limited to Election Day, with police responsibilities including intelligence gathering, planning, training, deployment, protection of electoral personnel and rapid response to emerging threats.  

He further urged officers to remain accessible to the public and directed Commissioners of Police to publish official contact numbers to facilitate communication and accountability.

Concluding his charge, Disu urged senior officers to return to their commands with a commitment to being “Neutral. Prepared. Present. Accountable.”